Orthodontics is a special discipline of dentistry concerned with aligning the teeth and jaws to improve one’s smile and oral health. “Ortho” means correct or straight and “Odont” means tooth. A Dentist usually recommends braces to improve the patient’s physical “orofacial” appearance. Through orthodontic treatment, problems like crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites, incorrect jaw position and disorders of the jaw joints are corrected.

The time of wearing braces depends upon your treatment plan. The more complicated your spacing or bite problem is, and the older you are, the longer the period of treatment, usually. Most patients can count on wearing full braces between 18 and 30 months, followed by the wearing of a retainer for at least a few months to up to two years to set and align tissues surrounding straightened teeth. Some patients may have to wear a permanent retainer.

Common Bite Problems
Overbite – The upper teeth protrude excessively and may make it difficult to bite into solid food, such as an apple or an ear of corn. In some cases, an overbite may make your lips thrust forward.
Open Bite – The front teeth don’t close when the back teeth meet, so biting into food may be a problem. An open bite sometimes makes it difficult for lips to close. This can strain face muscles.
Deep Bite – The upper front teeth drop too far over the lower ones when the jaws meet. This can cause the lower front teeth to strike gum tissue behind the upper teeth.
Underbite – The lower jaw is too large or too far forward. Or, the upper jaw may be too small. These problems cause the lower teeth to close in front of the upper teeth.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment can enhance your dental and overall health.
*Correction of bad dental habits;
*Improved self-esteem and speech;
*Positive jaw growth and planning time for incoming teeth;
*Prepare your mouth for certain restorative treatments, such as dental implants or a bridge.